Social networking software is a new approach in some academic and public libraries today in order to make libraries not only "cool" in the public's eyes, but also as a third space in which potential library users can participate in an collaborative exchange with their libraries. It also may allow users to build relationships with the library staff and other library users.

Examples of social networking software include MySpace.com, Friendster.com, and Facebook.com. These sites allows users to create pages in which others (potential library users) can view and provide feedback. Some academic and public libraries have created MySpace or Facebook pages in an attempt to promote and extend their library services such as reader's advisory.

Twitter

Flickr

Not all libraries, however, use social networking software to promote their services, some libraries view social networking software as too new, too trendy. Some libraries even have the websites for MySpace.com and Facebook.com banned in their libraries. This may be due to funding issues (See the ALA's site about DOPA http://www.ala.org/ala/washoff/WOissues/techinttele/iwa/iwa.htm) or it may be due to a library's management.

Will Richardson's blog - Great information/ideas from an educator's perspective. Will did a recent article in Technology and Learning 2005 called Blog Revolution on the educational benefits of blogging for/with students.
Richardson, W. (2005). Blog Revolution. Technology and Learning, 26(3), 48. Retrieved July 1, 2007, from the Wilson Web database.